As you learn about primary teeth, you will hear terms like “canines,” “incisors,” and “eruption” at the dentist office. Make sure to learn these basic terms which will help you better understand your child’s dental milestones. Here’s a breakdown of key dental terms, eruption timelines, and how to care for those first tiny teeth.
What Are Primary Teeth?
Primary teeth, also called baby teeth or deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth to emerge. These 20 small teeth play a big role in your child’s oral development, helping with chewing, speech, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Click here to book a dental appointment.
Each arch (upper and lower jaw) contains:
- 4 incisors (2 central, 2 lateral)
- 2 canines
- 4 molars
When primary teeth are ready to fall out, the process is called exfoliation, making room for permanent teeth.
Upper Jaw (Maxillary) Timeline
Eruption Dates:
- Central incisors: 8–12 months
- Lateral incisors: 9–13 months
- Canines: 16–22 months
- First molars: 12–19 months
- Second molars: 25–33 months
Exfoliation Dates:
- Central incisors: 6–7 years
- Lateral incisors: 7–8 years
- Canines: 10–12 years
- First molars: 9–11 years
- Second molars: 10–12 years
Lower Jaw (Mandibular) Timeline
Eruption Dates:
- Central incisors: 6–10 months
- Lateral incisors: 10–16 months
- Canines: 17–23 months
- First molars: 14–18 months
- Second molars: 22–31 months
Exfoliation Dates:
- Central incisors: 6–7 years
- Lateral incisors: 7–8 years
- Canines: 9–12 years
- First molars: 9–11 years
- Second molars: 10–12 years
Interesting Facts About Primary Teeth
- On average, four teeth emerge every six months.
- Lower teeth tend to erupt before their upper counterparts.
- Teeth usually come in symmetrical pairs, one on each side of the mouth.
- Girls typically get teeth earlier than boys.
- Baby teeth are smaller, whiter, and smoother than permanent teeth.
- All primary teeth typically erupt by age 3.
Dental Care for Infants
Caring for Emerging Teeth Teething can be uncomfortable for little ones. To soothe their gums:
- Massage gums gently with a clean finger.
- Use the back of a cool, small spoon to relieve discomfort.
- Offer a teething ring for additional comfort.
By understanding these milestones and caring for baby teeth, you’re setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. For more guidance or to book a visit, contact our office today!
Book A Dental Appointment
As with adults, your child needs to get their teeth cleaned and a dental checkup every six months. Kids should start going to the dentist soon after their first tooth erupts or around their first birthday, whichever happens first. Click here to book a dental appointment.